1.Grand Forks Pride

Grand Forks Pride is an annual week of events celebrating LGBTQ+ identity and self-expression in our city. The steering committee consists of community leaders offering their time and gifts. Traditionally scheduled for the middle of August, the week includes a variety of events for the whole family, including Pride Bowling, Movie Night, Pride Trivia, Community BBQ, Pride in the Park, just to name a few.

2. Grand Forks Out and Proud

This newly founded organization is motivated to provide safe spaces and programming for all members of the Queer and Trans community throughout the year. If you’re interested in getting into advocacy and policy around LGBTQ+ rights, Grand Forks Out and Proud is your crew! The group hosts events around National Coming Out Day, Transgender Day of Remembrance, and more!
Follow Grand Forks Out and Proud on Facebook and if interested in getting involved, email them at gfoutandproud@gmail.com. Be on the lookout for more resources and educational opportunities!

3. BJ Armani’s Cabaret

Looking for a fun night out?! Check out a drag show hosted by BJ Armani’s Cabaret at the American Legion, often hosted in East Grand Forks and surrounding areas! These 18+ shows feature local drag artists, dancing, music, adult bevs, inclusive community, and even the Midwest classic, taco-in-bag! BJ’s crew also offers All-Age Fairy Bingo and all the rainbow merch. If you show up, you’re in!

Follow BJ’s Armani’s Facebook page and Instagram for upcoming shows. Interested in volunteering at the shows? Send an email to  sarah.g27101@gmail.com

4. GSAs

Both public Grand Forks high schools offer a Gender Sexuality Alliance (formerly known as Gay Straight Alliance) groups led by advisors in the school. GSAs provide an environment in the schools that welcome Queer and Questioning teens in a safe, affirming community. We love that!

5. UND Pride Center

The Pride Center for Gender & Sexuality is located in the Memorial Union on UND’s campus. The center works to foster a supportive campus community for queer and trans students, faculty, and staff. Programs such as Allyship in Action, Trans Guide to UND, and individual consulting are ways that the Pride Center is working towards an inclusive environment at UND. The crew also hosts relationship-building programming, such as trivia nights, weekly study table, LGTBQ+ Alumni Socials, and LGBTQ+ History.

PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them, many of which include parents and caregivers. Greater Grand Forks PFLAG is currently the only chapter in North Dakota – very cool Grand Forks!

PFlag offers a peer support meeting on the second Tuesday of every month, from 7:00pm – 8:00pm. Meetings include conversation and support, along with occasional guest speakers and topical training. The group is currently working on collecting a library of useful books, materials, and a list of local resources.

7. Forx Sugar Beaters

Grand Forks has a Roller Derby team – YES! You read that correctly. This bada** group of women lace up their skates and slap on their helmets for some good ol’ fashioned roller derby. Roller Derby has historically provided community and belonging for Queer people, while offering space for a variety of styles, gender expressions, and sexualities.  The games are held at the Blue Line Club Arena with local food trucks and vendors galore. I’ve only recently attended my first game and will definitely be returning! This inclusive environment provides great entertainment and a family-like feel. Follow Forx Sugar Beaters on Facebook to keep up with their schedule!

8. Archives Coffee House

Archives Coffee House is an LGBTQ+ owned business located in the heart of the University of North Dakota campus. The coffee house operates as a social business and offers the space for events and support to groups in the community. Archives works at creating a safe, welcoming space on campus while celebrating and  hosting events for Pride alongside the Queer community. Check out Archives for delicious coffee, friendly environment, and a variety of events!

 

Grand Forks is full of groups, events, and spaces that offer community and belonging to LGBTQ+ folks and allies. Some may not think of North Dakota as a particularly queer-friendly state, yet I can say I’m proud of the effort of Grand Forks to encourage people to be fully themselves and feel safe in our city.